Violence Prevention: A Group Discussion Approach.

As a society, the United States is becoming increasingly concerned with the far-reaching consequences of childhood aggression and youth violence. This book offers a way in which educators can talk to K-12 students about violence. The step-by-step approach enables students to talk about experiences with anger, violence, threats, loss of control, regaining control, and the effects of witnessing violence. The session plans are broken down into three areas for easy reference: Primary, Junior/Intermediate, and Secondary. The session plans themselves are grouped into theme areas--each theme area includes 3-5 session plans. A standard format is used throughout for easy implementation. Each session plan takes approximately 40 minutes to complete. A brief literature review is included which offers a definition of interpersonal violence and which explores individual, social, and environmental factors that may influence a person's violence potential. The program outlined here is a transformational model and aims to help students and teachers not feel overwhelmed by problems of violence. Discussion, art, films, and role playing activities are all utilized. Evaluations of the program and a presentation directed at parents are provided. Contains approximately 100 references. (RJM)